Prediction: Draw
Best Odds: 14/5
Bookmaker: 888sport
We’re already into the second set of fixtures for the UEFA Champions League group stage and with so much going down in the first load of games, it’ll be really interesting to see who can build up some momentum with so little time to prepare this season. Today, we’re going to take a look at what should be a pretty important encounter between Rangers and Napoli in Glasgow.
Rangers
The step up in competition from a Rangers perspective is notable this season after going from Europa League finalists to the Champions League group stage. They’ve got a solid enough squad to compete on this level but they’ve been drawn in a tough group, and it’ll be interesting to see how they balance their responsibilities with wanting to reclaim the Scottish Premier League title from their bitter rivals.
Team News
The injury crisis continues for Rangers with Hagi, Lawrence and Ofoborh being out, and joining them could be Roofe, Helander, Souttar and Davies by the time kick-off rolls around.
Napoli
Napoli have started the season like a house on fire and with the rabid fanbase behind them, you could certainly make the argument that anything is possible between now and May. They look strong in Serie A, they got off to a tremendous start in the UCL against Liverpool, and they have an impressive squad. Now, it’s all about maintaining that consistency through games they should be winning.
Team News
Demme is out through injury with Lozano and Osimhen both being potentially very damaging absences for the visiting Italians.
Factors to Consider
- Rangers lost their UCL opener 4-0 last week whereas Napoli won 4-1.
- Rangers have won three, drawn one and lost two of their last six games.
- Napoli have won four and drawn two of their last six games.
- Rangers have scored 10 goals and conceded 11 in their last six games.
- Napoli have scored 12 goals and conceded three in their last six games.
Conclusion
Although all signs should point towards a Napoli victory, and probably a convincing one, this is the kind of fixture that feels like ‘gut check time’ for Rangers – and that’s where they thrive the most. We expect to see them put in a gritty, physical display to match the intensity of Napoli, and we’re picturing them holding out for a 1-1 draw that keeps their already-slim European hopes alive.
Prediction: Draw
Best Odds: 14/5
Bookmaker: 888sport
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